Memphis, TN – Johnnie James Williams, former President of American Drum and Pallet Company, Inc., was sentenced in June 2011 to 37 months in federal prison for knowingly and illegally storing hazardous waste, a violation of federal environmental regulations. The case, investigated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), reveals a pattern of deliberate disregard for environmental safety and a history of similar offenses.
From 2002 to 2007, Williams oversaw operations at American Drum, a company that acquired used steel and poly drums from various chemical and manufacturing facilities. These drums frequently contained residual solvents and other hazardous materials. Instead of properly disposing of these substances, Williams directed employees to consolidate the contents of partially full drums into other containers, effectively creating an unpermitted hazardous waste storage site. Crucially, American Drum never obtained the necessary permits to legally store or handle such materials.
The EPA’s investigation uncovered that Williams was fully aware of the hazardous nature of the waste he was handling. His actions weren’t isolated; he had previously been convicted in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee for similar violations at another drum reconditioning company, W&R Drum. This prior conviction demonstrates a repeated pattern of non-compliance and a blatant disregard for environmental laws.
Legal Ramifications
Williams was indicted on April 21, 2010, on one count of violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) – specifically, 42 U.S.C. §6928(d)(2)(A), which prohibits the knowing treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste without a permit. He subsequently pled guilty to the charge on August 30, 2010. The sentencing, handed down on June 7, 2011, included a 37-month prison term, a 36-month probation period following release, and a substantial restitution order of $322,750 payable to the U.S. EPA.
A Pattern of Neglect
The case highlights the dangers of improper hazardous waste management, which can pose significant risks to human health and the environment. The deliberate nature of Williams’ actions, coupled with his prior conviction, suggests a calculated attempt to circumvent environmental regulations for financial gain. The EPA’s successful prosecution sends a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Johnnie James Williams
- Company: American Drum and Pallet Company, Inc.
- Location: Tennessee
- Years of Operation (Illegal Storage): 2002 – 2007
- Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. §6928(d)(2)(A) – RCRA
- Penalty: 37 months incarceration, 36 months probation, $322,750 restitution
- Prior Conviction: Illegal hazardous waste handling at W&R Drum
The EPA continues to prioritize the enforcement of environmental regulations to protect communities from the harmful effects of hazardous waste. This case serves as a cautionary tale for businesses operating in the waste management industry, emphasizing the importance of compliance and responsible environmental stewardship.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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